Tug MCL Power III beached by storm in Malaysia

The tug MCL Power III, towing a barge with 5,800 tons of limestone, ran aground in South China Sea at the coast off Kandis in Bachok district, Malaysia. The vessel was en route from Surathani, Thailand to Johor, Malaysia, but was caught by storm and heavy seas, which pushed the uncontrollable convoy on the shore near the Thailand–Malaysia border. The crew reported the accident to the local authorities, but after beaching there was no immediate danger for the seamen and ship. According to preliminary information, there were no injured people and no reported water pollution. The salvage is not yet started, but will be done after inspection of the tug’s hull for underwater breaches.

The barge was released by the tug before grounding, but later was towed by the authorities to safe depth and secured near the scene of the accident. The shipowner was contacted to arrange salvage, but negotiations with subcontractors are underway.

The tug MCL Power III has overall length of 26.00 m, moulded beam of 8.00 m and maximum draft of 2.50 m. The ship is operating under the flag of Malaysia with MMSI 533170209 and call sign 9MQU8.